Sometimes artificial sweeteners can be extremely useful for people with diabetes and those who want to eat more healthily.
Meanwhile, sweeteners like aspartame can be quite dangerous sometimes - so you shouldn't use too much of them.
Here's why aspartame can be dangerous.
Phenylalanine
Aspartame contains an amino acid called phenylalanine.
Some people have a condition called phenylketonuria (PKU) and can't break down phenylalanine properly.
For them, consuming aspartame could be harmful because it can build up in the body and cause health issues.
Headaches and Allergies
A few people have reported getting headaches or feeling like they're allergic to aspartame.
However, these reactions are quite rare and not well-proven in scientific studies.
Weight Gain
Surprisingly, some studies have suggested that artificial sweeteners like aspartame might be linked to weight gain.
This is because they're much sweeter than sugar, and some people might end up eating more calories from other sources to compensate.
Appetite and Cravings
Some research also suggests that aspartame may affect our taste preferences, making us crave more sweet foods.
This can lead to unhealthy eating habits.
Digestive Upset
For some people, consuming products with aspartame can lead to digestive discomfort, like bloating, gas, or diarrhea.
Conclusion
It's essential to remember that the vast majority of people can consume aspartame safely without any issues.
However, if you have concerns or experience unusual reactions, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional.
And, if you have PKU, it's especially crucial to avoid aspartame and products that contain it.
